Ask Susan: What's the Best Way to Keep Strawberries Fresh?

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Q: Is there any way to keep strawberries fresh longer?— Becky Peek, Burke, Va.

A: Yes! The trick is to keep berries cold and dry so they won't mold. For the short term: Arrange the berries (without washing or removing the stems) on a paper towel-lined tray and cover with plastic wrap; then refrigerate. Before eating or using them, wash the berries under cool water and then remove stems.

Or, to take advantage of peak season (between April and June), and freeze your strawberries for smoothies, shortcakes, and cereal. To do this, place rinsed, dried, and stemmed whole berries, cut sides down, on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet; freeze, uncovered, for six hours. Then transfer to a freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to three months.